italian-citizenship-laws-history
The concept of Italian citizenship emerged with the unification of Italy in 1861. Before this, Italy was fragmented into multiple states, each with its own legal traditions and identity. The Law of March 17, 1861, proclaimed the Kingdom of Italy, laying the foundation for a unified national identity. However, formal citizenship laws were still undefined.
Decree-Law No. 36/2025 approved and the new rules for Italian citizenship: Photo of the Italian parlament
On May 20, 2025, the Chamber of Deputies approved Decree-Law No. 36/2025, now law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, with 137 votes in favor and 83 against, finalizing the proposal introduced in March by the coalition led by Giorgia Meloni, which was previously passed by the Senate on May 15.
From North to South - the best places to live in Italy: Photo of a church near the Dolomites, in the Italian alps
Italy is a country steeped in cultural heritage, boasting stunning landscapes and a deep historical legacy. Divided into regions, provinces, municipalities, and metropolitan cities, each area offers a distinct lifestyle and unique experiences. In this exploration, we’ll uncover the best places to live, considering factors like culture, economy, and quality of life.
Legal arguments for Italian citizenship by descent under decree-law 36/2025: Photo of man walking through a historical building in Italy
Decree-Law 36/2025 has significantly restricted Italian citizenship by descent, allowing recognition only for children and grandchildren of Italians, while excluding great-grandchildren and further descendants. This change has sparked legal and constitutional debates.
The role of Italy's regions in shaping national identity: Photo of an historical building in Rome
Italy is renowned for its rich regional diversity, which has deeply influenced its national identity throughout history. From distinct dialects and culinary traditions to varied economic models, each region has contributed uniquely to Italy’s character.
decree-law-citizenship-impact
On May 15, 2025, the Italian Senate approved Decree-Law No. 36/2025, a legislative measure that restricts the recognition of Italian citizenship by descent (jus sanguinis). The measure has sparked intense debate, with critics raising concerns about its constitutional validity, retroactive effects, and potential discrimination.
Minor issues cases: photo of a person holding a document folder for Italian citizenship
Summary

When it comes to obtaining Italian citizenship, the process can often be intricate and challenging, especially when minor discrepancies in documentation arise. These “minor issues cases” refer to applications affected by small discrepancies or minor issues, such as variations in names or dates in documents. Although these issues might seem trivial, they can significantly impact the citizenship application process, leading to delays and potential rejections if not addressed properly.

Legal recognition of minor issues cases

In recent years, Italian local courts have become more favorable in handling minor issues cases. This positive shift acknowledges that small discrepancies should not be a barrier to obtaining citizenship. Courts recognize that such errors often stem from historical inconsistencies or simple clerical mistakes, and they are increasingly willing to approve applications that might otherwise have been denied due to minor errors.

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How to identify minor issues in documents

Nevertheless, identifying minor issues in documentation is still a very important step before submitting an application for Italian citizenship. Common examples of these issues include:

  • Spelling variations in names: For instance, a name spelled as “John” in one document and “Jon” in another can raise flags during the application review.
     
  • Discrepancies in birth or marriage dates: Differences in recorded birth or marriage dates across various documents can lead to complications.
     
  • Inconsistencies between documents: Variations in information between different civil documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and passports, can cause delays.
     

This meticulous examination can help prevent complications and streamline the application process. It’s advisable to compare all documents side by side, noting any variations that may need attention.

Solutions to resolve minor issues

Fortunately, there are several solutions to address minor issues in documentation. Here are some practical steps:

  • Document rectification: In many cases, it is possible to correct documents at civil registry offices before submitting the application.
     
  • Sworn declaration: When rectification is not possible, using sworn declarations can be an effective alternative. A sworn declaration is a formal statement explaining the minor discrepancies and affirming the applicant’s identity and eligibility.
     
  • Legal assistance: Seeking help from lawyers who specialize in Italian citizenship is highly recommended. These professionals have the expertise to handle minor issues cases effectively, ensuring a higher chance of approval.
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Why consider the judicial route?

For more complicated cases, pursuing the judicial route can be a highly effective option. When minor discrepancies cannot be corrected administratively, legal action may be necessary to ensure the recognition of citizenship. Here’s why considering the judicial route might be beneficial:

  • Effectiveness: The judicial route can provide a definitive solution for cases where minor issues cannot be resolved through standard administrative processes. Courts have the authority to make final decisions, which can lead to the approval of the citizenship application.
     
  • Legal Expertise: Engaging a lawyer with expertise in Italian citizenship cases is crucial for navigating the judicial route. These legal professionals can present a compelling case, highlighting the applicant’s eligibility despite minor discrepancies. Their experience in dealing with local courts can significantly enhance the chances of a favorable outcome.

Opportunities to overcome minor obstacles

Proper documentation is still crucial for one’s Italian citizenship application. It serves as the foundation of your eligibility and legal claim. Accurate and consistent documents—such as birth certificates, marriage records, and other civil documents—are necessary to demonstrate your lineage and identity. Ensuring that all documents are meticulously reviewed, corrected, and verified before submission can help prevent complications, streamline the process, and increase the likelihood of a successful application. Furthermore, proper documentation reflects thorough preparation and diligence, showcasing your commitment to becoming an Italian citizen.

If you encounter “minor issues” in the documentation, do not feel discouraged from pursuing Italian citizenship. There are various legal solutions available to address these obstacles, providing hope and opportunities for successful applications. With careful document review, appropriate rectification measures, and legal assistance, applicants can overcome these minor hurdles.

If you’re facing “minor issues” in your citizenship application, io.citizen’s team is here to help. We specialize in resolving these details and ensuring the success of your application. Don’t let small discrepancies stand in the way of your Italian citizenship. Contact us today for professional assistance and a smoother application process.

Begin your journey to Italian citizenship

Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.